The French Avoriaz Ski Museum took first place in the ranking of the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe. The facility is distinguished by its unique views and innovative architecture, which attracts not only skiers, but also cycling and hiking enthusiasts.
“Before winter sports changed the face of this place, it was not just a cluster of mountain huts and alpine pastures,” reads the official website of Avoriaz.
Today it is one of the most popular ski resorts in Europe, and its position is confirmed by the rating created by the Bounce platform. Based on the popularity of individual resorts in social networks and opinions on the Tripadvisor platform, 10 ski gems in Europe were selected.
Priority is given to the above-mentioned emergency. The successful founders of this resort are Jean Voirnet, a gold medalist at the 1960 Olympics. After his sports victory and returning from the Olympics, this mountain skier was appointed the person who should change the face of Avoriaz and build a ski center. Together with friends and business partners Gérard Bremont and Jacques Labro, Voirnet began to build a place that was far ahead of its time.
The Avoriaz Museum attracts more than just skiers 18th Studio / Shutterstock
It was worth the risk
Avoriaz's avant-garde concept was controversial from the start. For example, the center should be free of traffic. The architectural solution aroused interest. The young architecture students who participated in the project approached this issue in an innovative way, at the same time relying on the achievements of the famous Swiss architect Le Corbusier.
The main assumption of the emerging resort was the belief that there are no right angles in nature. High-rise buildings located on top of the mountain are characterized by sharp corners and thick lines. The buildings were covered with wood and were unusually integrated into the surroundings of the mountains. The first visitors could be surprised by the influence of Vuarnet and the work of the company in 1966. Time has shown that the risk is worth it. In 2003, Avoriaz was awarded one of the greatest cultural heritage achievements of the 20th century by the French Minister of Culture.
Avoriaz Alps France – Linda George shutterstock_1573295335Linda George / Shutterstock
The place attracts not only lovers of white madness or those who want original architecture. He is also famous among filmmakers. In 1973, the first fantasy film festival was held in Avoriaz, which was held until 1993. Over the years, the festival has attracted many famous film personalities, such as Robert De Niro, and its program includes productions by Steven Spielberg and Brian de Palma.
You can also enjoy the beauties of Avoriaz outside the ski season, as mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts will discover.
Main photo: JEAN-BAPTISTE PREMAT / Shutterstock
